Mandi (Munish Sood)
Tattapani, a serene getaway in Mandi district, is fast emerging as Himachal Pradesh’s hub for adventure tourism.
Known for its natural hot springs and scenic landscapes, the region has now gained popularity for its diverse water sports and recreational activities in the Kol Dam reservoir. With jet skiing, speed boating, banana rides and more, Tattapani is attracting adventure seekers from across the country.
Scenic escape near Shimla
Situated just 55 km from Shimla, Tattapani is part of the Karsog sub-division and holds cultural and historical significance as the land of Rishi Jamdagni. The breathtaking landscape, with its calm waters, surrounding mountains, and natural hot springs, provides a unique setting for adventure and relaxation.
The introduction of water-based activities in Tattapani’s reservoir has turned the area into a vibrant adventure hub. Currently, visitors can enjoy jet skiing, speed boating, bumper boats, banana rides, e-foil surfing, water skiing and ATV biking.
At present, the lake hosts 8 jet skis, 10 speed boats, 1 bumper boat, 1 banana ride, 2 jetovators, 4 e-foils, 2 water skis, and 2 ATV bikes. These activities are conducted under the supervision of trained professionals, ensuring both safety and excitement for tourists.
Boost to local economy
The rise of tourism in Tattapani has also created significant employment opportunities. Around 200 to 250 people are now engaged in tourism-related work, with 35 directly employed in water sports activities and 200 others benefiting indirectly from the influx of visitors.
Additionally, increased tourist footfall has provided a boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants and transport services.
Beyond adventure tourism, Tattapani holds religious and historical significance. It is believed that Maharishi Jamdagni meditated here, and the region has had natural sulfur-rich hot water springs for centuries.
The hot water springs, or kund, were officially inaugurated by Dr Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, on September 22, 1952. Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore also visited Tattapani in 1938.
Growing popularity among tourists
Adventure enthusiasts from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh are now making their way to Tattapani to experience water sports. Earlier, most tourists visiting Shimla restricted their trips to Kufri, Naldehra, Mashobra or Narkanda.
However, with the rise of water activities, many now extend their stay to include Tattapani, leading to a surge in overnight visitors and benefiting local hospitality businesses.
500 tourists per day during peak season
According to Prem Raina, Secretary of the Tattapani Water Sports Association, the area is becoming a prime adventure destination.
On peak days, 100 plus vehicles and 400-500 tourists visit Tattapani daily. Over the past year, 50,000 to 60,000 tourists have experienced the water sports and scenic beauty of the region.
Kol Dam Reservoir and the Birth of Tattapani’s Water Sports Scene
Tattapani’s transformation began in 2015, following the creation of a reservoir due to the construction of Kol Dam on Sutlej river. Recognising its potential for tourism, water sports activities were introduced under regulatory guidelines.
Tattapani Travels became the first registered agency in Himachal Pradesh to offer organised water adventure activities. All operations are managed by pilots trained at the National Skill Training Institute for Water Sports, Goa.
With its perfect blend of adventure, nature, and cultural heritage, Tattapani is steadily becoming a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
